Left Turn on Red trial commences

19 November, 2013

Left Turn on Red trial commences

Lord Mayor Graham Quirk is today launching a six month Left Turn on Red trial which permits motorists to turn left on a red light after stopping at five select sites across Brisbane.
The trial is being conducted to measure what benefits left turn on red provides in terms of reducing congestion and determine whether the change should be implemented permanently.
Lord Mayor Graham Quirk the trial was about looking for simple ways to reduce congestion.
“These relatively minor changes can make a big difference in tackling congestion around the city,” Cr Quirk said.
“The trial has been introduced as part of my ongoing commitment to ensure Brisbane is an accessible, connected city by delivering a range of congestion reduction measures.”
Deputy Mayor and Infrastructure Chairman Adrian Schrinner, who is overseeing the trial, said the safety considerations for the trial were paramount.
“The locations were selected after being assessed for safety against Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) guidelines, which include parameters for sight distance, pedestrian activity, cyclist activity and sufficient clearance for buses and trucks,” Cr Schrinner said.
“Households in close proximity to each of the trial sites will receive a letter informing them of the changes at their local intersection and numerous signs alerting road users of the changed conditions will be erected for the duration of the trial.”
Five Brisbane City Council signalised intersections have been chosen for the six month trial.
The selected locations are:
• Left turn from Bowen Street into Lutwyche Road, Windsor;
• Left turn from Maud Street into Breakfast Creek Road, Newstead;
• Left turn from Hellawell Road into Gowan Road, Sunnybank Hills;
• Left turn from Edge Street into Creek Road, Murrarie; and
• Left turn from Spence Street into Broadwater Road, Mt Gravatt East.
Cr Schrinner said traffic surveys and monitoring of driver behaviour will be conducted throughout the trial period.
“The results of the data collected during the trial will inform recommendations on the future implementation of left turn on red facilities at signalised intersections,” Cr Schrinner said.
When using the trial sites, motorists must first stop and then give way to vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists. Pedestrians and cyclists should exercise caution at all times and be aware of turning vehicles.
[Ends] NOVEMBER 19, 2013